2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (200 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2012 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (244 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | M3 | Sentra |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4575 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2685 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |